Inca sanctuaries represent fundamental edifices that are part of the heritage left by this Andean civilization. Whether found in archaeological complexes or integrated into the current city, these enclosures constituted and will always constitute invaluable fragments of our cultural heritage that deserve to be explored.
The ceremonial structures of Cusco remain as silent testimonies of the magnificent civilization that dominated the Peruvian Andes. Located in the ancient central headquarters of the empire, these sanctuaries transcend their status as mere stone constructions; they embody the legacy of an advanced society and its profound spiritual connection with the natural environment.
Ready for the tour? Below we present detailed information about these sacred constructions in Cusco.
We invite you to consult our best travel options to Machu Picchu 2025, don’t miss the opportunity to visit this world wonder.
Contents
Coricancha: The Golden Enclosure of the Sun God
The edifice dedicated to the Sun God (Astro Rey) is undoubtedly the most emblematic space in Machu Picchu. It is a semicircular construction consecrated to the solar deity, erected on a huge natural stone block in the religious area. Beneath this rocky formation lies a natural cave that was also modified and conditioned to serve as an imperial tomb.
In the central section of the sanctuary’s interior, there is a carved monolith that functioned as an altar for the veneration of the sun. Two openings can also be seen, one oriented towards the west and the other towards the north.
According to research carried out during the 20th century, these openings were designed to accurately observe the solstices and equinoxes based on shadow projection every June 21st and December 21st. These characteristics make it one of the most historically significant ceremonial constructions in the Cusco region.
Lunar Sanctuary
The enclosure dedicated to the Moon is located literally on the mountaintop, away from the hustle and bustle of Cusco, although it is only an hour’s walk away. This building houses a cave with a ceremonial altar where figures of Andean felines, snakes, and birds of prey are sculpted.
Its purpose is linked to the exaltation of fertility, which is why its cavities were designed to allow the entry of sunlight and moonlight on specific dates, directed towards particular areas of the altars.
This sanctuary constitutes one of the most recognized sacred structures; according to its functional and morphological characteristics, it is estimated to correspond to the Imperial period between 1438 and 1532. This construction was elaborated and sculpted on what is called a rocky outcrop.
In this enclave, both outside and inside, ceremonies and rituals dedicated to the moon (as evidenced by the lunar representations carved in the enclosure) as well as to other divinities like Mother Earth were held.
The Sacred Solar Clock
“Intihuatana,” a Quechua word whose literal translation means “where the sun is tied” and which is interpreted as a solar clock, constitutes a carved altar on bedrock that stands out for its relevance in the pre-Hispanic era.
During the Inca era, this instrument was part of the astronomical knowledge of the time and was considered the most relevant structure within the Machu Picchu complex. There is a belief that this monolith represents a sacred stone emanating energy.
The Inca civilization, from its origins, significantly deepened its understanding in the field of astronomy. Its members were extraordinary scholars of this discipline, which undoubtedly constituted one of its distinguishing features.
Thanks to these observations and research, the Incas managed to identify constellations, stars, seasonal variations, and establish a precise agricultural calendar.
Palace of Viracocha
This construction is among the most famous sanctuaries and belonged to the ruler Viracocha, progenitor of Pachacútec. According to narratives from the time, it was an exceedingly opulent residence in Cusco. After the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, the building ceased to be part of Inca heritage and was given to a religious order.
Unfortunately, it does not survive today, as it was demolished to build the Cusco cathedral on its land. No Inca vestiges remain, but in its place, an imposing Baroque-style monument represented by this Christian temple was erected.
First Imperial Residence
As is known, the founding ruler, Manco Cápac, established his first official residence on an elevation very close to the river current known as río Saphi, near the urban center. Whether history or myth, this imperial construction partially preserves its original magnificence after approximately ten centuries.
Adjacent to this residence, the Catholic temple of San Cristóbal was built, easily observable from the Plaza de Armas.
Enclosure of the Serpents
This palatial enclosure belonged to another prominent ruler: Huayna Cápac. Subsequently, after the arrival of the Spanish colonizers, it was assigned to Hernando Pizarro.
Later, he donated the property to the Jesuit order, which built the Church of the Society of Jesus. Currently, sections of the original Amaru Kancha walls can be seen on Loreto pedestrian street. It constitutes one of the oldest and most significant sanctuaries of Inca legacy.
The Master Stone
When referring to tourist enclaves, the 12-angled monolith holds a privileged place; precisely here was located an ancient residence of ruler Inca Roca. On the walls of this palace, the colossal stone blocks, which fit together with surprising precision, are impressive.
Currently, the episcopal see functions inside this ancient construction, housing the museum collection of Religious Art from Cusco. Undoubtedly, it represents one of the most emblematic Inca architectural vestiges.
The ancient imperial capital never disappoints, especially when it comes to its historical heritage. Dare to visit these incredible sacred constructions in Cusco and get ready to live an experience that will remain in your memory.